Standing in front of the Triptych at the altar of the Nashville United Methodist Church, members of the Page family were honored guests at the celebration and include (from left to right): Jamie Page, Bloomington; Todd and Robin Pancake, Marshall, Ill; Carole Page, Nashville; Libby and Tony Pancake, Zionsville; Kathy Sheil, Ellettsville (not pictured).
The highlight of the Nov. 19 Thanksgiving service at the Nashville United Methodist was the 75-year rededication of its original, hand-crafted altar piece by the late Earl Page.
Artist Earl Page was known nationally for his exceptional craftsmanship, and his workshop was located directly across from the State Park entrance on State Road 46 East. Carole Page is the wife of the late Dr. Paul Page, son of Earl and Alice Page. Members of the Page family were honored guests.
Known formally as a “triptych,” the altar piece is a 6 by 5 ft. three panel, open-door cabinet crafted of Brown County poplar. The triptych hangs high on the center wall of the altar and houses the cross.
“Triptych’s are works of art that date back to the early Christian church,” says pastor Roy Ice. “We are proud that such a beautiful and historic piece of art is enjoyed not only by church members but by community groups who use our sanctuary for concerts and other events.”
The Democrat covered the original dedication of the altar piece in its Nov. 11, 1948, issue. Earl, and his wife, Alice, were long-time members of the church at the time. The triptych was moved from the old Methodist church building to the new sanctuary which opened in 2002 on same site next to the village green.
